Young people urged to 'zoom' in on nature

It is open to children aged 14 and under, and the overall theme is 'nature, trees and woods'.

The competition's aim is to get young children and their families out in the great outdoors during the school holidays, whether in the back garden, local park or their nearest Woodland Trust woodland.

There are six different categories to enter: general, a bug's eye view, discovery, whatever the weather, snap it with feeling and nature's playground.

Danielle Evans from the Nature Detectives team said: "We're looking for pictures that show the photographer has been on a real outdoor adventure.

“The photos should inspire others to investigate their local environment and show how natural spaces like woods are brilliant places to explore, play and have fun. So get snapping!"

The winners will see their photos published on the Trust's Nature Detectives website, as well as a 2011 calendar that will be available to download for free. The overall winner will also receive a 14 megapixel digital camera and a bendy, wraparound tripod. The closing date is midnight on September 30.

The competition isn't looking for professional pictures, so any child aged 14 and under can enter, even with photos taken on their mobile phone! For further information on how to enter and a free pack of photography tips visit www.naturedetectives.org.uk/photography